INTERNSHIPS AND ATTACHMENTS /

Violet Liang

Law Student, National University of Malaysia (UKM)


How did you come to do an Attachment at Thomas Philip?
I attend Public University. We have a six week break at year's end and I decided to look for an opportunity in a litigation firm.

I had been involved in a publicity event for the UKM-organised Asian Law Student Conference 2008 at which Thomas Philip was a sponsor. Several of my seniors had been attached to the firm and spoke highly of their experience. I applied and...

What were your aims prior to the placement?
I wanted the practicalities and application to pair with my theoretical knowledge. The lecture theatre situation is not open to investigation and argument – the experience of the litigation office was what I was after.

Were they realized?
I got a lot from the experience: the lawyers were outgoing and supportive. The exposure to procedure and the demands of a real-life working legal office, the insights given and assistance with my advocacy skills, updating of the firm's latest cases and understanding the strategies in asking for fees... these activities stood out.

Most potent was Mathew's one-on-one with me, illuminating the linking of "your case" with the arguments of the case. I am definitely ahead of the pace for next semester!

What now for you?
One more semester before I graduate in May. I have a corporate scholarship and am weighing up whether or not to look further afield.

Message to others?
I would recommend an attachment / internship to any student in any branch of the Law….and Thomas Philip would prove ideal anyone interested in Litigation.

Sadly a road block exists for many: "Oh, no way! Not during my holiday!"